Elongated nozzle configured for use with automated dispensers such as door handle sprayers and the like

ABSTRACT

Attachments for aerosol cans used in automated sprayers can comprise a hollow tube having a first end and a second end. The first end is shaped to seat on the valve of the aerosol can. The second end is opposite the first end and has a nozzle disposed adjacent the second end. The nozzle is disposed in fluid communication with the first end via the hollow tube and can disperse aerosol therefrom, preferably in an axial direction. A bearing surface is disposed along the hollow tube, preferably clear of the second end hollow tube to facilitate axial dispersion of aerosol. An exterior feature disposed along the hollow tube moves in synchronization with the bearing surface.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 120 asa continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 11/749,132, filed May 15,2007, entitled “Controllable Door Handle Sanitizer System And Method,which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 11/476,465,filed Jun. 27, 2006, entitled “Controllable Door Handle Sanitizer systemand Method, which is a continuation-in-part of PCT Application SerialNo. PCT/US2006/00841, filed Jan. 9, 2006, entitled “Door HandleSanitizer System And Valve Attachment Apparatus,” which is acontinuation-in-part of U.S. application Ser. No. 11/104,292, filed Apr.11, 2005, entitled “Door Handle Sanitizer System and Apparatus,” whichin turn claims priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119(e) of U.S. ProvisionalApplication Ser. No. 60/642,792, filed Jan. 10, 2005, entitled “DoorHandle Sanitizer System and Apparatus.” The entire disclosure of each ofthe aforementioned priority applications are hereby incorporated byreference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to improvements in cleaners and sanitizersfor door handles and the like, and more particularly, to an elongatednozzle suitable for dispensing a germicide, such as a disinfectant,antibacterial solution or cleansing agent, onto a door handle atcontrolled intervals.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many people are reluctant to use public restrooms due to actual orperceived sanitary conditions of those restrooms. However, in someinstances, such use is unavoidable.

These people try to avoid touching any surface after they have washedtheir hands. However, touching a surface of the restroom is nearlyunavoidable because sometimes the person must touch the handle of thedoor to exit the restroom. Some people carry gloves, wipes or the liketo use in such public restrooms. Some people take an extra paper towelto use to cover the door handle. All of these techniques work, but areburdensome and not efficient.

Some prior art methods suggest covering a handle of a door so a personopening the door can avoid direct contact with the handle. Covering adoor handle, while effective in preventing a person from contacting thedoor handle during operation of the door, does little to clean ordisinfect the door handle. Furthermore, the cover then becomes a sourceof contamination, germs, bacteria and the like. Therefore, there is aneed for efficiently and effectively sanitizing the handle of a door.This typically requires a person to carry a liquid spray bottle into aroom, spray a disinfectant or antibacterial liquid onto the door handleand then wipe the handle clean. This procedure can be cumbersome andinefficient, requiring a person to carry items with him or her for thecleaning procedure.

Still further, some people, often nicknamed germephobes, wonder when thelast time a door handle was cleaned, and even if there is some form ofprotection for this person, they are uncomfortable touching the doorhandle. These people are not satisfied by the mere existence of somemeans for cleaning or sanitizing the door handle, rather, they mightprefer to know that such a cleansing device is activated at intervals inresponse to certain conditions or according to a prescribed cleaningschedule, such as every several minutes. Therefore, there is a need forefficiently cleaning and sanitizing a door handle at prescribed timeintervals in response to certain conditions, e.g., according to apredetermined cleaning schedule, opening and closing of the door,passing of an individual in the vicinity of the door knob, turningon/off of the lights, etc. There is also a need to control the doorhandle sanitizing device to automatically shutdown during times when thedoor is not in use, e.g., overnight, weekends, and any other prescribedtime when the door is not being used for an extending period. Thepresent inventor has addressed those needs, but there remains a furtherneed to ensure that unattended spraying proceeds, over time, with adispersion pattern consistent with the goal of effectively spraying thedoor handle, and is not performed with spent or worn aerosol canattachments. The present invention addresses that need.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, an attachment for avalve of an aerosol can comprises a hollow tube having a first end and asecond end. The first end is shaped to seat on the valve of the aerosolcan. The second end is opposite the first end; and has a nozzle disposedadjacent the second end. The nozzle is disposed in fluid communicationwith the first end via the hollow tube and can disperse aerosoltherefrom. A bearing surface is disposed along the hollow tube. Anexterior feature disposed along the hollow tube moves in synchronizationwith the bearing surface. A frangible joint is disposed between thefirst end and the exterior feature.

According to another aspect of the invention, an attachment for a valveof an aerosol can comprises a hollow tube having a first end and asecond end. The first end is shaped to seat on the valve of the aerosolcan. The second end is opposite the first end; and has a nozzle disposedadjacent the second end. The nozzle is disposed in fluid communicationwith the first end via the hollow tube and can disperse aerosoltherefrom. A bearing surface is disposed along the hollow tube. Anexterior feature disposed along the hollow tube moves in synchronizationwith the bearing surface and comprises teeth, slots or grooves.

According to still another aspect of the invention, an attachment for avalve of an aerosol can configured for seating within a door handlecleanser device comprises a hollow tube having a first end and a secondend and a surface therebetween. The first end is shaped to seat on thevalve of the aerosol can. The second end is opposite the first end; andhas a nozzle disposed adjacent the second end. The nozzle is disposed influid communication with the first end via the hollow tube and candisperse aerosol therefrom in an axial direction. A bearing surface isdisposed along the surface of the hollow tube clear of the second endhollow tube. An exterior feature disposed along the hollow tube moves insynchronization with the bearing surface.

These and further aspects, features and advantages of the presentinvention will become more apparent from the following detaileddescription when taken in connection with the accompanying drawingswhich show, for purposes of illustration only, a preferred embodiment ofthe present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is illustrated by way of example and not by way oflimitation in the figures of the accompanying drawings in which likereferences indicate similar elements.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view a door handle sanitizer according to afirst embodiment of the present invention mounted on a door above thedoor handle;

FIG. 2 is a perspective exploded view of the door handle sanitizer ofFIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a germicide source and spray actuator ofthe sanitizer of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of the door handle sanitizer of FIGS.1-2 absent the outer cover to show interior components;

FIG. 5 is a partial enlarged elevation view of a door handle sanitizerabsent the outer cover to show interior components;

FIG. 6 is a partial enlarged elevation view a door handle sanitizer asin FIG. 5 now showing a variation in the gear arrangement;

FIG. 7 is a side elevation view of a sanitizer fixed to a portion of adoor with its cover opened;

FIG. 8 is a side elevation view of a sanitizer showing removal andreplacement of the germicide source;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view a door handle sanitizer showing optionalfurther features;

FIG. 10 is a front elevation view of a door handle sanitizer, absent theouter cover, to show optional further interior components;

FIG. 11 is a rear elevation view of a door handle sanitizer, absent theouter cover, to show optional interior components in accordance with avariation of FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a right side elevation view of a the door handle sanitizer ofFIG. 11;

FIG. 13 is a front elevation view of a door handle sanitizer, absent theouter cover, illustrating an arrangement and cooperation of a valveattachment with surrounding mechanical and electrical elements; and

FIG. 14 is a detail, perspective view of the valve attachment such ascan be used with the sanitizer of FIG. 13.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a door 5 equipped with a spraydispenser 10 in accordance with a first embodiment of the presentinvention. Spray dispenser 10 is operable to spray a germicide 2therefrom to coat, and thereby sanitize, an outwardly extended doorhandle 14. FIG. 2 illustrates an exploded view of the dispenser 10.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, spray dispenser 10 includes an outer housing21, base 22, internal control switches 23 and visible indicator lights24 for providing control and status information of dispenser 10.

Spray dispenser 10 is preferably mounted to door 5 above door handle 14as indicated. Outer housing 21 is hingedly connected to base 22 viaprongs 38. Prongs 38 are configured to fit through orifices 39 ofhousing 21 and allow for rotational movement of the outer housing 21between a close and opened position. In a closed position, outer housing21 completely conceals the internal components of dispenser 10, while inan opened position, outer housing 21 provides access to germicide source47 as well as other internal components contained within dispenser 10,such as batteries 45 and internal control switches 23.

Outer housing 21 of spray dispenser 10 comprises a top wall 27, a bottomwall 28 and, for the purpose of presenting a pleasant appearance, acurved front wall 26. Dispenser 10 also includes a component supportwall 29 to which the majority of the internal components of spraydispenser 10 are attached.

A germicide source 47, preferably in the form of an aerosol can, isremovably mounted within spray dispenser 10. Specifically, withreference to FIG. 3, germicide source 47 is retained by a mountingbracket 49 which functions to secure germicide source 47 in placethereby placing valve 57 and elongated nozzle 56 in proper alignmentwith spray actuator 52. Mounting bracket 49 also provides an efficientmeans for removal of germicide source 47 in the event replacement isnecessary. As illustrated, mounting bracket 49 is preferably U-shapedhaving a base portion 81 and two arms 83 extending therefrom forsecuring germicide source 47 therebetween. Base portion 81 is fixed tocomponent support wall 29. Mounting bracket 49 should have flexibleproperties such that arms 83 are capable of flexing widthwise to allowinsertion of germicide source 47 within the confounds of the arms, whilealso maintaining their shape so as to completely support the weight ofgermicide source 47. Accordingly, germicide source 47 can “snap in” and“out” of bracket 49 with minimal force and without causing damage toeither the bracket of the germicide source and, as stated above, shouldbe sufficient to secure germicide source 47 in place within spraydispenser 10 without the need for additional securing mechanisms. One ofordinary skill in the art would realize that various alternativemounting devices can be employed for securing germicide source withinspray dispenser 10, e.g., Velcro straps, ties, belts, clamps, etc., anda spray dispenser 10 according to present invention can be readilyadapted to function with any such alternative securing device. As analternative to bracket 49, or in addition thereto, a clamp 197 isprovided which also serves to support and retain germicide source 47within spray dispenser 10. Clamp 197 is configured to slidably engagethe neck portion of germicide source 47 and mate with a complimentaryfixture within the housing (not shown) so as to lock the canister inplace. Because clamp 197 must first be removed before removal ofgermicide source 47 is possible germicide source 47 will remain fixedwithin the housing when clamp 197 is set in place.

A motor 50, gear 54, arm 55 and spring 57, herein collectively referredto as the spray actuator 52, are supported within a motor mount bracket51. Motor mount bracket 51, as with mounting bracket 49 described above,is also fixedly attached to component support wall 29. When outerhousing 21 is in a closed position both mounting brackets 51 and 49,germicide source 47 and spray actuator 52 are all shielded from viewunder the cover of outer housing 21. The relationship between theindividual components of spray actuator 52 and their operation inmechanically effecting the release of germicide 2 from source 47 willnow be described in detail with reference to FIGS. 3-5.

An arm 55 is pivotally mounted to motor mount 51 and engages theelongated nozzle 56, Valve 57 of germicide source 47 is aligned with andfluidly connected to elongated nozzle 56. Elongated nozzle 56 ispreferably fixed to the germicide source 47 via valve 57 and includes afrangible joint to prevent tampering, i.e., removal of elongated nozzle56 from valve 57. The frangible joint is one of a score or a break-linein nozzle 56 such that a force in excess of an ordinary force on nozzle56 during normal operation of the device will sever nozzle 56 about thefrangible joint making the nozzle 56 inoperable with replacementcanisters within the sanitizer device 10. This insures that freshnozzles 56 are used with replacement cans to ensure a good dispersionthrough the nozzle and a minimum of clogging. Referring to FIGS. 3-5,motor 50 is preferably a DC motor and is operable to rotate a gear 54clockwise through an angle. The clockwise rotation of gear 54effectuates a counter-clockwise rotational movement in arm 55. Arm 55moves in synchronization with nozzle 56 and nozzle 56 preferablyincludes a bearing or frictional surface configured to accept upwarddriven force from arm 55. Since elongated nozzle 56 engages arm 55, thecounter-clockwise rotation of the arm 55 forces nozzle 56 upward againstvalve 57 applying a requisite degree of upward force on valve 57necessary to temporarily open the valve and release germicide 2contained in source 47 (FIG. 5). The release of germicide 2 from valve57 flows into elongated nozzle 56 which directs germicide 2 outward fromspray dispenser 10 into the surrounding atmosphere and onto handle 14. Aspring 58 is fixedly attached between arm 55 and motor mount bracket 51and is necessary for returning arm 55 to a normal position (shown inFIG. 4) after making contact with and being forced by gear 54.

Different configurations of arm 55 are possible without departing fromits essential function, namely to move nozzle 56 toward valve 57 totemporarily open the valve and release germicide 2 contained in source47. In accordance with an alternative arrangement, nozzle 56 includes anexternal feature such as a tooth, groove or slot, or a series of teeth,grooves or slots. When the germicide source 47 is installed and properlyaligned the external feature is contactable by arm 55 such that rotationof arm 55 brings the arm in contact with the external feature on thenozzle so as to force nozzle 56 toward valve 57.

It should be understood that motor mount bracket 51 supports thecomponents of spray actuator 52 within spray dispenser 10 withoutimpinging the removal of germicide source 47.

Referring to FIG. 5, gear 54 is preferably configured with equi-distanceprotrusions or notches along it's peripheral capable of contacting arm55 and forcing it to pivot as discussed above. Because the forcing ofarm 55 by gear 54 results in the opening of valve 57, the longer arm 55is forced by the gear, the longer valve 57 will remain open and thegreater the amount of germicide 2 can be released. The spacing betweenprotrusions on gear 54, the width of each protrusion and the rotationalangle through which gear 54 rotates each time motor 50 is activated willall effect how long valve 57 is opened and hence, how much germicidal 2is released for each given activation. Accordingly, the amount ofgermicidal released during each activation of spray dispenser 11 can becontrolled and an increase or decrease in the amount of germicidal 2realized by configuring gear 54 so that for each rotation it is contactsand forces arm 55 for a longer or shorter period of time.

In alternative arrangements, the spray activator 52 can be configuredwith different gears so as to effect a temporary opening of the sprayvalve 57. Referring to FIG. 6, the equi-distance protrusions on gear 54of FIG. 5 have been replaced by a series of ribs which correspond to aseries of receiving orifices on arm 450. Gear 449 can be configured, byadjusting the size and number of ribs, to allow different time intervalsin which force is applied to valve 57. Thus, effecting the amount ofgermicidal spray released from the valve and ultimately onto the handle.Still in further arrangements the spray activator 52 can be configuredto pressurize a dose or ampoule of germicide from a reservoir to releasethe pressurized fluid as a spray onto the handle 14.

Referring to FIG. 2, component support wall 29 defines abattery-containing compartment 44 at a top marginal edge thereof forsupporting two AA batteries 45 and includes a control circuit 31 mountedthereto for receiving signals from switches 23, processing the receivedsignals and controlling indicator lights 24 and motor 50. Controlcircuit 31 is operable to trigger optional indicator lights 24 duringthe operation of spray dispenser 10, signaling the user of suchoccurrences as when switches 24 or spray dispenser 10 have beenactivated. Control circuit 31 is preferably preprogrammed to activatemotor 50 at prescribed intervals which are determined by settingswitches 23. For instance, switches 23 define a variety of userselectable time intervals and, in response to a specific switch setting,control circuit 31 supplies power to motor 50 at certain intervals. Eachtime motor 50 is powered it will trigger spray actuator 52 and releasegermicide 2 from source 47. Since it is known and fairly common that anymicrocontroller capable of controlling and processing signals indicativeof operational time intervals may generally be used, the particularimplementation of control circuit 31 has been omitted for clarity.Conventional wires connect control circuit 31 to power (supplied bybatteries 45), indicator lights 24, user operable control switches 23and motor 50.

Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, elongated nozzle 56 is aligned with athrough hole 68 on bottom wall 28 of the housing 21. Through hole 68functions as an access point through which elongated nozzle 56 exitshousing 21. The elongated nozzle 56 is fluidly connected to thegermicide source 47 via valve 57 to receive germicide therefrom and isoriented to spray germicide in axial dimension A of housing 21 (FIG. 1)away from the bottom wall 28 of the housing 21 and toward handle 14 ofthe door 5. This outwardly directed spray 72 should be of a force andbreadth to completely cover at least half the entire perimeter 15 ofhandle 14.

Referring to FIG. 2, installation of spray dispenser 10 begins by firstpositioning base 22 proximate to the door handle 14 (e.g., above thedoor handle on the door itself and securing it to the door via screws35. Next, component support wall 29 is mounted to base 22 using anyconventional securing or locking means, such as screws, glue, Velcro,clips, snap-fit arrangements, etc. Finally, batteries 45 are inserted inbattery compartment 44, germicide source 47 is inserted into mountingbracket 49 and outer cover 21 is fixedly attached to base 22 at supportprongs 38. Outer cover 21 can now be closed providing complete cover forsupport wall 29 and the components thereon and spray dispenser 10activated.

As further illustrated with reference to FIGS. 7 and 8, prongs 38 areconfigured to rest within orifices 39 of outer cover 21 and providepivotal movement of the cover about the prongs 38, thereby permitting“opening” of spray dispenser 10 by pivoting cover 21 away from support22 and “closing” of spray dispenser 10 by pivoting cover 21 towardsupport 22. Thus, complete access to both battery compartment 44 andgermicide source 47 can be achieved. Optionally, the cover and supportcan be severed to one another with a lock or keyed release so as toprevent tampering by unauthorized individuals.

The germicide 2 contained in source 47 and sprayed on the handle 14 cancomprise a disinfecting liquid, aerosol, mist or the like, and ispreferably characterized by it's ability to sanitize surfaces it comesinto contact with. According to alternative embodiments of the presentof invention, germicide 2 comprises a chlorine-based chemical solutionas this provides a relatively non-flammable fluid (as compared to analcohol-based solution) and also provides the germicide functiondiscussed above. It is to be understood that the term “germicide” usedherein is not intended to be limited to any particular type of chemicalsolution or fluid and the scope and meaning of this term includes anysuitable fluid or composition which acts as a disinfectant. Optionally,a scent additive may be included in the fluid in order that thesanitizing fluid may also function as an air freshener.

In certain instances, such as with room doors and the like, the spraydispenser 10 dispenses germicide 2 at certain given intervals in time,for example by a time switch, clock control, and the like. According toalternative aspects of the invention, the spray actuator 52 can betriggered in response to manipulation of the door handle 14, such asafter each individual manipulation or following a given series of suchmanipulations. In the latter case, a counter can initiate the release ofgermicide 2 whenever a predetermined count is reached. Such cases justcited are all examples of a controlling software program. It is thissoftware program that is responsible for automating the disinfectingmethods disclosed earlier, by activating the handle sterilizationprocess when a predetermined state or function is sensed.

Referring to FIG. 9, optional further features are shown in which thefront wall 26 further comprises a sensor 95 for triggering sprayactuator 52. Sensor 95 can be optical, infrared, mechanical/electricalor a combination of the above. Thus, in this arrangement the actuator 52can activate the spray when a person or movement is detected in avicinity of the handle or when a light beam interruption or vibration isdetected. Alternatively, sensor 95 can be used to disable the spraymechanism or turn off the unit for a specific period of time, ratherthan to activate the spray mechanism. For example, spray dispenser 10can be controlled to dispense germicide 2 at certain given intervals intime as discussed above and sensor 95 can serve to disable the spraydispenser when a certain condition is sensed by the sensor, for example,sensor 95 can comprise an optical sensor and be triggered to suppressfurther spraying when the lights are turned off or a person is close tothe unit.

Referring to FIG. 10, a front elevation view of a door handle sanitizer100 having further, optional features is shown. As in the door handlesanitizer illustrated in FIG. 3, Door handle sanitizer 100 includes amotor 50 and a first gear system comprising gears 54 and 55. Referringto FIG. 10, further features include a second gear system comprisingspray gears 102, 103 and 109, a mechanical shutter 105, shutter motionsensor 106, nozzle 104, frangible joint 107, spindle 114 andgear-bearing hollow tube 108. As shown, the second gear system isisolated from the first gear system yet coupled thereto by theattachment. Further, the shutter 105 and motion sensor 106 are providedto block the aerosol spray unless gears 102, 103 and 109 are set inmotion by track 111 on gear-bearing tube 108. Gear-bearing tube 108conveys aerosol from valve 57 of aerosol can 47 to nozzle 104, intoconical opening 110 and outward from spray device 100. As illustrated,the aerosol is conveyed along a straight line path along dimension A. Asa departure from prior valve attachments, the aerosol is conveyed to thenozzle without changing the direction of the aerosol fluid flow. This ispossible because the protrusion 54 that serves as the bearing surface isnot aligned with the axis of the hollow tube 108, but is insteadpositioned off to the side.

Shutter 105, when positioned at rest, blocks the exit of aerosol sprayfrom nozzle 104. Tube 108 and spray valve 57 move vertically (asillustrated) in a reciprocal motion, meaning each time tube 108 isforced into motion by arm 55 (as discussed with respect to FIG. 5), tube108 and valve 57 are forced toward aerosol can 47, resulting in amomentary spray of aerosol from the can. Valve 57, nozzle 104 and tube108 are fluidly connected such that aerosol spray exiting valve 57travels through the tube 108 to nozzle 104 before discharging from thehousing of the door handle sanitizer 100.

Gears 102, 103 and 109 cooperate with the movement of tube 108 and havea ratio of movement chosen to result in rapid movement of shutter 105 soas to clear a path for the aerosol spray in response to a comparativelysmaller reciprocal movement of the tube 108. An exterior feature (track1) disposed on tube 108 moves synchronously with tube 108. Track 111 cancomprise a series of bearing surfaces, e.g., teeth, grooves or slots,which are operable to engage with corresponding receiving features ongear 102. When tube 108 is forced upward by arm 55, track 111 sets gear102 into a clockwise rotation. Gear 103 is mechanically engaged, viagear 109, between gear 102 and shutter 105 and responds to movement ofgear 102 by rotating counter-clockwise and forcing movement of shutter105. Gear 109 is preferably at least two magnitudes smaller than gears102 and 103 and is fixedly mounted to gear 103 to provide a mechanicaladvantage, such that a small translation of tube 108 in the verticaldirection results in a large translation of shutter 105 in relation toconical opening 110. This is necessary for shutter 105 to overcome atleast a good portion of the distance of conical opening 110, which is alarger distance than the tube 108 moves in the vertical direction. Theresulting effect of the counter-clockwise movement of gear 103 is toforce shutter 105 to its displaced position such that it unblocksconical opening 110 allowing aerosol spray to exit there through. Thisis accomplished by including a bearing or frictional surface on aportion of the side of shutter 105 in communication with gear 103 suchthat the forced rotation of gear 103 moves shutter 105. One of ordinaryskill in the art will realize that any general pattern of apertures canbe disposed on shutter 105 as long the apertures are capable of matingwith corresponding apertures on gear 103.

Shutter 105 includes a flexible portion or component extending outwardfrom its midpoint and is therefor operable to flex about spindle 114 asit is set into motion by gear 103, as described above. Since tube 108 isrecessed, a conical opening 110 on housing; 100 is preferred so thataerosol spray has an even dispersion pattern when exiting the housing. Asingle nozzle is expected to produce a uniform dispersion pattern ifunimpeded; however, a number of nozzles can be provided and arranged tochange the overall dispersion pattern as measured from a distance fromthe dispenser.

After tube 108 has been activated, causing aerosol spray to dischargefrom spray dispenser 100, tube 108 will return to its rest positionreversing the movement of gears 102, 103 and 109, thereby causingshutter 105 to return to its rest position (e.g., to close conicalopening 110). The downward motion of tube 108 is the same as previouslydescribed except all gears move in the reverse direction.

Sensor 106, embodied as a switch in FIG. 10, is positioned so as todetect movement of shutter 105 and exposure of the nozzle 104. When gear103 is set into motion, it moves shutter 105 into contact with sensor106. Sensor 106 is connected to control circuit 31 (FIG. 2) and sends amovement signal to the control circuit in response to being triggered bymovement of shutter 105. This movement signal is indicative of the factthat shutter 105 has moved a predetermined amount suitable to be sensedby the sensor 106. The sensor can comprise a mechanical switch, but oneof ordinary skill in the art will realize that other types of sensorscan be used in place of a mechanical switch, e.g., electromechanical,optical or magnetic sensors. Regardless of the type of sensor 106employed, it must be positioned and/or configured such that it isoperable to detect at least movement of the shutter in one direction(e.g., each opening of the shutter).

Door handle sanitizer 100 further includes software programmed incontrol circuit 31 or elsewhere within the spray dispenser to monitorany sensed shutter 105 movement. One way for the software to monitorsensed shutter 105 movement is by testing for a state change in sensor106. In accordance therewith, sensor 106 can be configured to go from anopen state to closed state and from the closed state back to the openstate in one spray cycle. If such state changes in sensor 106 do notoccur in a specified time frame, it can be inferred that the mechanismsof door handle sanitizer 100 have either failed, been tampered with or anon-approved aerosol can is being used, in which case further spraycycles can be suspended by the software. The software preferablycomprises a timing circuit to determine shutter 105 movement necessaryto continue to permit triggering of the aerosol spray. In accordancewith a salient aspect of the present invention, the timing circuit canbe overridden by an optical proximity sensor (not shown) which, asdiscussed above with respect to sensor 95 of FIG. 9, can be used todisable sanitizer 100 under certain conditions, e.g., off peak hours ofoperation.

A reset can be built into the software which resets control circuit 31so as to reactivate the circuit after spray cycles have suspended. Thereset can be activated mechanically in which case an authorized personcan manually trigger a reset switch on the housing (not shown).Alternatively, the reset can be automatically programmed into thesoftware so as to automatically reset control circuit 31 to resume spraycycles after a prescribed time of inactivity due to lack of a movementsignal being provided to the software.

In accordance with another aspect of the present invention and withcontinued reference to FIG. 10, tube 108 connects to valve 57 of aerosolcan 47 using a strong adhesive, epoxy or heat seal (e.g. a melt bond)and is connected so as to prevent separation of the tube 108 from thevalve 57. A frangible joint 107 is disposed between a first end of thetube 108 and the track 111 and is provided to weaken the connectiontherebetween. Frangible joint 107 is preferably formed in the materialof the tube 108 but can comprise a separate element in the joint 107 isconstructed with a weak portion so as to break the tube 108 at alocation near aerosol can spray valve 57 should someone attempt todisconnect tube 108 from valve 57. Preferably, the frangible joint 107includes a score, perforation, break-line, or any other feature that isweaker than the bond between the valve 57 and the tube 108. Frangiblejoint 107 acts as a security feature should a person attempt todisconnect aerosol can 47 from tube 108 and reuse it with another can.Its construction is operable to break the tube 108 and shorten itsoverall length, rendering it incapable of driving gear 102, in the eventthat the tube is thereafter reattached to another valve 57, because thetrack 111 will no longer align with the gear 102.

FIGS. 11 and 12 are respective rear and right side views of a doorhandle sanitizer 200 according to an alternative arrangement of the oneillustrated and described in FIG. 10 above. The alternative arrangementillustrated in FIGS. 11-12 includes all of the components describedabove with respect to FIG. 10 with the exception of the spindle 114, andis arranged in a more compact form, requiring one less gear. Door handlesanitizer 200 includes gears 202 and 203, mechanical shutter 105,shutter sensor 106, nozzle 104, frangible joint 107 and gear-bearingtube 108. The shutter 105 and motion sensor 106 functions remain thesame, namely, to block the aerosol spray unless gears 202 and 203 areset in motion by track 111 on gear-bearing tube 108. Gear-bearing tube108 conveys aerosol from valve 57 of aerosol can 47, through conicalopening 110, outward from spray device 200 via the nozzle 104.

Gears 202 and 203 cooperate with the movement of tube 108 resulting inrapid movement of shutter 105 so as to clear a path for the aerosolspray to emit from the nozzle. A track 111 disposed on tube 108 movessynchronously with tube 108. Track 111 comprises a feature suitable formoving the gears, e.g., teeth, grooves or slots, which are operable toengage with corresponding receiving features of gear 202. When tube 108is forced upward by arm 55 track 111 sets gear 202 into acounter-clockwise rotation. Gear 203 is fixed to gear 202 and is atleast two magnitudes larger in diameter and preferably four magnitudeslarger. Accordingly, gears 202 and 203 move together. Gear 203 engagesshutter 105 forcing the shutter to move horizontally when the gear is inmotion. The resulting effect of the counter-clockwise movement of gears202 and 203 is to move shutter 105 such that it unblocks conical opening110 allowing aerosol spray to exit there through. Since tube 108 isrecessed, a conical opening 110 on housing 100 is preferred so thataerosol spray has a proper dispersion pattern when exiting the unit. Abearing or frictional surface on a portion of the side of shutter 105 incommunication with gear 203 is preferred such that the forced rotationof gear 203 drives movement of the shutter 105. Raised features orapertures configured to engage the gear 203 can also be employed toengage and move the shutter.

Similarly to the discussion following FIG. 10, after tube 108 has beenactivated causing aerosol spray to discharge from spray dispenser 100,the tube 108 will return to its rest position reversing the movement ofgears 102, 103 and 109, thereby causing shutter 105 to generally overliethe axis of the tube 108 and the nozzle 104, and perhaps close conicalopening 110. Sensor 106, embodied as a switch, is positioned so as todetect movement of shutter 105.

Referring now to FIG. 13, the cooperation of a sensor 206 with movementof a hollow delivery tube 208 is described to illustrate for the aspectsin accordance with certain aspects of the invention, Sensor 206 and tube208 can be of the same construction as sensor 106 and tube 108. In thearrangement shown in FIG. 13, energy from the motor 50 (not shown; seeFIG. 3) is conveyed to a protruding bearing surface 254 supported by thedelivery tube by a driven arm 255. The arm is pivoted or rotated inresponse to a gear 212 that is placed in rotation with activation of themotor. The motor is activated by the control circuit 31 described above,typically by a voltage applied across the motor terminals (“energizationsignal”). Preferably, the energization signal is a DC voltage.

As illustrated, a first gear system 210 comprising gears 212-220 arepositioned and sized so as to move the arm 255 in a clockwise rotation(see arrow). With rotation of the arm 255, a generally axial (upward)force is imparted to the bearing surface 254 disposed along a surface ofthe tube 208 to cause the tube 208 to reciprocally move upward and openthe valve 57 of the aerosol can. The valve opens only momentarilybecause continued rotation of gear 220 advances pivot arm 255 to theposition shown in broken lines beyond and clear of the bearing surface254. While the valve is open, the pressurized contents of the aerosolcanister are released from the valve and through the nozzle of the tube.The aerosol is conveyed along a straight line path along dimension A,without changing the direction of the aerosol fluid flow because theprotrusion 54 that serves as the bearing surface is positioned off tothe side. The arm can continue to rotate to a rest position, after themotor stops driving the gear system 210, such as at, say the 8 o'clockposition. Once the pivot arm has moved past the bearing surface 254, thetube 208 returns to its rest (downward) position (as shown) in which thevalve 57 is closed. The pressure in the aerosol can biases the valve toposition the delivery tube in the rest position. The gear system 210 cancomprise multiple gears or just one gear.

Movement of the delivery tube in an axial direction includes asynchronous movement of an exterior feature associated with the tube.The exterior feature can be a portion of the bearing surface 254 (suchas segment 254 a on an opposite side from where the arm 255 contacts thebearing surface), but is illustrated as a separate exterior feature 211.Exterior feature 211 has a rest position A when the tube is disposedsuch that the valve 57 is closed (the downward position) and a displacedposition B when the tube has been urged by the arm 254 to the open-valveposition (the upward position) with a concomitant displacement of thetube 208. When the sensor 206 comprises a mechanical switch, theexterior feature 211 alternately depresses the mechanical contact of thesensor (position C) or permits release of the mechanical contact(position D) as a function of the position of the delivery tube 208. Abias, not shown, normally urges the contact switch toward position D, ina conventional manner. Thus, the reciprocal movement of tube 208 causesalternate state changes of sensor 206 as the contact moves betweenpositions C and D (at that moment or thereafter). As can be appreciated,the sensor 206 can take forms other than a mechanical switch (e.g., anopted sensor or a vibration sensor or a sound sensor) with the exteriorfeature 211 adapted to cause a state change which is detected insynchronization with movement of the tube 208. The state change sensedby the sensor delivers control signals to the control circuit 31.Software executing within a processor of the control circuit can beconfigured to react to the presence or absence of the state signals,generally, and more particularly in relation to other events such as thetiming of receipt of such signals relative to delivery of the motorenergization signal or a particular time interval. In the event that thestate signals are not generated during a motor actuation cycle, thecontrol circuit can inhibit delivery of further motor energizationsignals, or not generate such motor energization signals any longer.

As can be appreciated from the foregoing, software resident in thecontrol unit 31 is in electrical communication with the sensor 206 inorder to confirm or determine whether the state of the sensor ischanging with each actuation of the motor, and hence, with each dose ofthe aerosol spray. Preferably, the system has logic in the control unitwhich is programmed to energize the motor and cause the first gearsystem 210 to reciprocally move the tube 208 only if the sensorregistered a state change on the prior actuation of the motor. Thisensures that an appropriate aerosol source has been properly loaded inthe dispenser. The logic of control unit 31 can enable one or moresprays without a state change having been detected, for example, justafter closing the dispenser lid.

Thus, sensor 206 senses the movement of the tube 208 through itscooperative arrangement with external feature 211. The sensortransitions between closed and open states and between open and closedstates with reciprocal movement of the delivery tube 208. These statechanges are expected by the control unit 31 to occur within a timeinterval (e.g., 300 ms) corresponding to one spray cycle or to bedetected while the motor drive signal is being applied to the motor.This enables the logic unit to react in the event that signals are notas expected, for example, if the aerosol can and its delivery tube 208are not properly loaded within the dispenser housing.

The control unit 31 can suppress further motor actuations if the sensor206 does not deliver state change signals. The motor actuation cycle canalso be suppressed if certain external conditions are detected such asthe presence of a hand of a person in the vicinity of the sanitizer unit200.

With continued reference to FIG. 13, a movable guide 199 is shown in anoperative position in which it seats in proximity to tube 208. The guidecan be a rotatable wheel. The guide is movable within the confines ofslot 198 between a loading position, e.g., the left most end of theslot, and an operative position, e.g., seated in rotatable proximity totube 208. Guide 199 is moved from the operative position to the loadingposition prior to removing the germicide source and tube 208 a seatwithin the sanitizer housing. Once the germicide source, or a newgermicide source, is seated within the sanitizer housing the guide 199is moved back to the operative position in (optionally rotatable)proximity to the valve. Only once the guide is in the operative positionis the germicide source operational within the sanitizer device.

Referring now to FIG. 14, an attachment for the valve 57 of the aerosolcan 47 comprises an elongated nozzle 256 defining a hollow tube 208having a first end 202 (shown partially broken away) that is sized tosit upon the valve 57. Preferably, the tube 208 is affixed to the valve57 in a permanent manner such that a force applied to the tube toseparate it from the valve results in a fracture at the frangible joint207 before the tube separates from the valve. As described above, thevalve and tube can be joined by glue, a heat weld joint, and the like. Afracture at the joint 207 shortens the tube 208 rendering it unsuitablefor further use. At the other tube end is a nozzle 204 and an outersurface 206 extends therebetween. In use, aerosol from the canister 47is conveyed linearly and preferably without constrictions or impedimentsfrom the valve 57 and into the hollow tube 208 until it emerges throughthe nozzle 204. The linear configuration (along dimension A, as shown)maximizes the transit of aerosol which cannot be achieved as well in abent or perpendicular conveyance as in prior art attachments. When usedfor automated dispensing, this better ensures a clog-free operation uponeach opening of the valve 47. However, the useful life of the tube 208is limited to that of the aerosol canister so as to maintain a highquality of dispersion. The extension tube 208 and the canister 47 arethus replaced together at the same time.

The elongated nozzle 256 includes along the outer surface 206 one ormore protrusions 254 which serve as a bearing surface that can bereceive and transmit a force to the valve 57 of the canister, aspreviously described. The bearing surface is spaced from a central axisof the tube 208 and thus allows a force to be applied to the bearingsurface 254 while the canister dispenses an aerosol in an unimpededlinear path to and through the nozzle 204. The elongated nozzle 256 alsoincludes along the outer surface 206 one or more exterior features thatmove synchronously with the tube, e.g., are affixed to the tubersexterior. For example, exterior feature 211 can be affixed to the tubeand shaped and positioned to interact with a sensor. In one embodiment,the feature is an arm and the sensor is a switch, wherein the armpresses upon the switch when the tube 208 is momentarily displacedagainst a restoring force of the valve 47. The elongated nozzle 256 alsocan include along the outer surface 206 one or more guides 210 thattravel along a support surface and thereby prevent deflection of thetube in an undesired direction. As illustrated, the guides are below thetube and cooperate with structure of the dispenser hosing to preventdownward movement or deflection of the tube.

The elongated nozzle 256 can further have cuts 212 a, 212 b that cancooperate with structure of the dispenser hosing to better ensurereciprocation of the elongated nozzle without deflection. The cuts 212a, 212 b can be shaped to complement the shape of a movable guide 199when the guide is in an operative position, namely, seated in proximityto elongated nozzle. The cuts are on the exterior of the elongatednozzle and are not in fluid communication with the aerosol that passeswithin the tube.

Referring again to FIG. 1, handle 14 can take any shape or size and ispreferably configured to assist in opening and closing of door 5. Handle14 can be of a stationary type used to push or pull door 5 or can bemechanically mounted and include a conventional locking mechanism,requiring rotation of a handle to unlock the door prior to opening andclosing. While the handle is illustrated as a conventional cylindricalshaped door handle, the spray dispenser 10 described herein is operableto sanitize any door handle and examples of several handle shapes whichcan be sanitized by spray dispenser 10 include, but are not limited to,spherical, rectangular, hexagonal, rod or hook-shape handles andcomposites thereof. Handle 14 has a knob portion 13 comprising an outerperimeter 15 and a diameter dimension D which extends through the centerof knob 13 to the outer perimeter 15. One of ordinary skill in the artwould realize that door 5 can be handless, and in place of the handle aflat plate could be affixed to the surface of the door for pushing orpulling the door. As described in greater detail below, the embodimentsof spray dispenser 10 described herein can be equally applied to suchplate arrangements by orientating nozzle 56 to direct the germicidespray onto a plate-type arrangement as opposed to a protruding handle14.

Although the embodiments of the invention were described with referenceto a disinfection apparatus for restroom doors it should be noted thatat least some of the embodiments are suitable also for disinfectingother kinds of handles, such as handles of cabinets for the sterilestoring of surgical instruments, doors of operating theaters or rooms inhospitals etc.

Expedients of the present invention described in one embodiment are notto be limited to that embodiment and can be readily combined with any ofthe other described embodiments. Furthermore, any feature of oneembodiment, not expressly described in connection with an alternativearrangement or embodiment, can be combined with that arrangement orembodiment to derive benefit there from.

While the invention has been described with reference to severalembodiments thereof, the invention is more broadly defined and limitedonly by the recitations in the claims appended hereto and their legalequivalents.

1. An attachment for a valve of an aerosol can, comprising: a hollowtube having a first end and a second end, the first end shaped to seaton the valve of the aerosol can and a second end, opposite the firstend; a nozzle disposed adjacent the second end and disposed in fluidcommunication with the first end via the hollow tube, the nozzledispersing any aerosol therefrom in a pattern; a bearing surfacedisposed along the hollow tube; an exterior feature disposed along thehollow tube, the exterior feature moving in synchronization with thebearing surface; and a frangible joint disposed between the first endand the exterior feature.
 2. The attachment of claim 1, wherein thefrangible joint is one of a score or a break-line.
 3. The attachment ofclaim 1, wherein the exterior feature comprises a series of teeth,grooves or slots.
 4. The attachment of claim 2, wherein the frangiblejoint is operable to render the nozzle useless for its intended purposeduring an attempt to separate the attachment from the aerosol can.
 5. Anattachment for a valve of an aerosol can, comprising: a hollow tubehaving a first end and a second end, the first end shaped to seat on thevalve of the aerosol can and a second end, opposite the first end; anozzle disposed adjacent the second end and disposed in fluidcommunication with the first end via the hollow tube, the nozzledispersing any aerosol therefrom in a pattern; a bearing surfacedisposed along the hollow tube; and an exterior feature disposed alongan exterior of the hollow tube, the exterior feature moving insynchronization with the bearing surface and comprising one of teeth,slots or grooves.
 6. An attachment for a valve of an aerosol canconfigured for seating within a door handle cleanser device, comprising:a hollow tube having a first end and a second end and a surfacetherebetween, the first end shaped to seat on the valve of the aerosolcan and a second end, opposite the first end; a nozzle disposed adjacentthe second end and disposed in fluid communication with the first endvia the hollow tube, the nozzle dispersing any aerosol therefrom in anaxial direction; a bearing surface disposed along the surface of thehollow tube clear of the second end and an exterior feature disposedalong an exterior of the hollow tube, the exterior feature moving insynchronization with the bearing surface.
 7. The attachment of claim 6further comprising a frangible joint disposed between the first end andthe exterior feature.
 8. The attachment of claim 7, wherein thefrangible joint is one of a score or a break-line.
 9. The attachment ofclaim 7, wherein the frangible joint is operable to render the nozzleuseless for its intended purpose during an attempt to separate theattachment from the aerosol can.
 10. The attachment of claim 6, whereinthe exterior feature comprises a series of teeth, grooves or slots 11.The attachment of claim 6, wherein the surface disposed between thefirst and second end of the hollow tube further comprises one or morecuts.
 12. The attachment of claim 11 wherein the cuts are not in fluidcommunication with the first end of the hollow tube.
 13. The attachmentof claim 6, wherein the surface disposed between the first and secondend of the hollow tube further comprises guides adapted to abut asupport surface and thereby prevent deflection of the hollow tube.